Rinse Under Cold Running Water Hold strawberries under cold running water and gently rub them to remove dirt and bugs. This method is simple and effective for surface cleaning.
Soak in Saltwater Solution Mix 1 teaspoon of salt into 2 cups of water. Soak the strawberries for 5-10 minutes. The salt encourages bugs to float to the surface. Rinse well afterward to remove any salty taste.
Use Vinegar Water Combine 1 part vinegar with 3 parts water. Soak the berries for about 5 minutes. This not only removes bugs but also kills bacteria and extends the fruit’s shelf life.
Try a Baking Soda Bath Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda to a bowl of water and soak the strawberries for 10-15 minutes. Baking soda helps dislodge dirt and bugs from the berries.
Inspect Each Berry Closely After soaking, inspect your strawberries individually. Look for hidden bugs in crevices and remove them with a gentle rub or rinse.
Dry with a Clean Towel Lay the strawberries on a clean towel and pat them dry. This helps you spot any lingering bugs and prepares them for storage or eating.
Invest in an Ultrasonic Cleaner For an extra thorough clean, consider an ultrasonic produce cleaner. These devices use sound waves to shake loose dirt and bugs without harming the fruit.